DETROIT - Anthony Mantha offered so much hope for the Detroit Red Wings and their fans when he was selected 20th overall in 2013, at the time their second-highest pick in 22 years.
A big, strong winger with prolific goal-scoring ability, decades of drafting low precluded the organization from acquiring young talent like this.
After a slow transition to the pro ranks, Mantha showed much promise last season. This year, he looks like a star in the making.
"I think he can be a superstar in this league," Red Wings goaltender Jimmy Howard said.